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Sunday, July 26, 2015

REVIEW: The Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a review

Expected Publication: April 5, 2016

The Nameless City is the first volume in a trilogy slated for Spring 2016 publication from acclaimed graphic novelist Faith Erin Hicks and First Second Publishing. Taking place in a historical China or fictional counterpart, readers learn that the 'Nameless City' in fact has thousands of names and is a geographical and political stronghold. Whenever a new regime takes over, the city is renamed.

Enter young Kaidu, who has just come to the city to train as a Dao warrior. He soon learns that such training will be difficult as will garnering the affection of his busy and often absent father. Soon Kai meets Rat, a homeless street urchin. She, like so many others, is not treated as a person because of her lack of social status. Kai and Rat build a realistic friendship that is in many ways the crux of this story.

Perhaps, more importantly, greater themes of rebellion, freedom, and social inequality are intrinsic notions throughout this work. As the political situation of the Nameless City, appears to unravel, the next parts of the story will see all factions of citizens working together for a common goal.

I enjoyed the art, characters, themes and overall story. I am intrigued to see what Hicks explores for the rest of the trilogy. Fans of Hicks' previous works (i.e. Friends with Boys) will recognize the common ties of friendship and a desire to fit in despite outside odds.

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Introducing Library Linsey

Welcome to my Teen Library Resources blog. My name is Linsey and I've been working in public library service for 9 years, most recently as an assistant branch manager but also adult and youth services.

Within this blog you'll find reviews, program and display ideas, as well as other useful resources if you're working with teens in a library or educational setting.